What to Expect During Your First Gynecologist Appointment 

Taking the step from girlhood into womanhood is a significant moment in a young woman's life, which is why numerous women feel worried or unsure prior to their first gynecologist appointment. Understanding what to expect and how to prepare before your first visit can soothe pre-appointment jitters. Below are a few of the most frequently asked questions about going to the gynecologist for the first time. 

What Will Happen During the First Appointment? 

Your first visit to the gynecologist will involve your doctor asking you about your medical history and your sexual health. While it is normal to feel uncomfortable talking about these personal matters, it's vital to be honest, because it will enable your doctor to provide you with the assistance you need. 

How Do I Prepare for My First Appointment? 

When it comes to preparing for your first gynecologist appointment, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Find a doctor you feel comfortable with. Keep in mind that if you feel uncomfortable with the doctor, you can select a new one.
• Schedule the appointment on a day when you know you won't have your period.
• Brainstorm questions you'd like to ask your doctor about your reproductive health. Ask about anything you feel uncertain about. If you're stuck, consider questions involving your menstrual period, contraception, vaginal health, etc.

What Are the Types of Gynecologic Exams? 

There are four principal kinds of examinations you might have during your first appointment, depending on your age, sexual history, or if you have any specific symptoms. If you are going to have any exams, your doctor will explain the procedure to you beforehand. 

The Four Types of Exams Include:

• General physical exam:  This includes all the elements of a standard medical exam, including checking your weight, height, and blood pressure.
• Breast exam: Your doctor will examine your breasts to determine whether there are any lumps or unusual discharge.
• Pap smear: The Pap smear procedure involves scraping off a sample of cells covering the cervix. Your doctor will use a specific brush to acquire the cells, which a laboratory will then examine to check for the appearance of abnormal cells.
• Pelvic exam: Not all patients have a pelvic exam, unless they've had sex or exhibit specific symptoms. The pelvic exam involves your doctor examining your vulva for symptoms of infection and obtaining cell samples to test them for STDs.

The first gynecologist appointment is naturally stressful, but the good news is the following ones will be much easier. Knowing what to anticipate prior to the day of your appointment is the first step to reducing any anxiety you may experience.